Lanxoblatta rudis (Rough Bark Roach)

Lanxoblatta rudis

(Rough Bark Roach)

Lanxoblatta rudis is a South American cockroach that belongs to the subfamily Zetoborinae. Its species name, "rudis", translates to rough/course in Latin and thus, also being an adept bark mimic, it was assigned the common name "Rough Bark Roach." Perhaps the most bizarre feature of these animals is the extremely wide, flattened body design. This unique make-up allows the roaches to hide all of their grabbable body parts beneath themselves while lying perfectly flat against bark and effectively thwarting predation.

Adult Size - Male (30 mm), Female (35 mm)

Climbing Ability - Nymphs & adults can climb

Flying Ability - Uncertain

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Enclosure

L.rudis aren't particularly large or crowding sensitive, so their enclosure doesn't need to be spacious. Young nymphs are VERY picky about their hides and will die unless consistently offered fresh, smooth bark.

Ventilation level - Moderate

Hides - Necessary

Barrier/Secure Lid - Necessary

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Substrate

L.rudis aren't picky about their substrate as long as it holds moisture well.

Type - Not picky

Moisture level - Moderate

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Food

L.rudis aren't picky about their food and can be fed an average roach diet.

Type - Fruits, proteinaceous pet foods, vegetables

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Temperature

L.rudis can be kept into the mid 70s, but grows and breeds fastest at warmer temperatures.

Range - 75 F to 85 F